Arsenal ready to offload Mkhitaryan this summer despite backing star in Baku row
The 30-year-old has flattered to deceive at the Emirates since joining from Manchester United in January 2018
HENRIKH MKHITARYAN has total support from Arsenal after pulling out of Wednesday’s Europa League final — but they will not stop him leaving this summer.
There is a general acceptance at the Emirates that the 30-year-old, signed from Manchester United in January 2018, will never play at the peak of his powers in the Premier League.
Arsenal would dearly love to get Mesut Ozil, another big earner off the books as well, but he has indicated that he loves London life far too much.
The German playmaker is tied down in North London until 2021, but he has made it clear he has no plans to depart the Gunners.
Asked recently whether he wants to stay at the club, the 2014 World Cup winner said: "Absolutely. I've got two more years on my contract.
"I don't know after that but I've got two years left."
Mkhitaryan has flattered to deceive under Unai Emery this season - chipping in with six goals and seven assists in 39 games.
Arsenal fans have called for the club to boycott the Europa League final with the Armenian international missing the clash against Chelsea due to security fears.
Gunners managing director Vinai Venkatesham has slammed Uefa following the incident, as he branded the situation as "unacceptable".
He said: "I struggle to find the words about how strongly I feel. We have a situation that is completely unacceptable.
“It is not our decision or Henrikh’s but one we made together. We don’t feel he can travel to a major European final and that’s extraordinarily sad."
While a petition to change the venue from Baku to Wembley has reached 13,000 signatures.